Where The Street Has a Name

AYA Street brings a fresh combo of Peruvian-Asian cuisine and a splash of street art culture to the heart of Bali.

Seminyak neighbourhood in Bali deserves recognition for all the trendy happenings and popular haunts opening around town. Amidst the vibrant scene, one of the most buzzing and talked about is AYA Street, a restaurant and street art gallery on Petitenget Street. Masterminds Juanjo Suárez and Rafael Sanchez came up with the concept of combining the exciting Peruvian-Asian cuisine with the pulsating world of visual arts and international soundtracks, resulting in a unique and fun hangout.

With the aim of serving an exceptional fine dining experience, catered in a quirky and affordable fashion, the culinary team of AYA pays the highest respect to fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create delectable delights, while drawing inspiration from Inca and Asian influences. Focusing on Nikkei (Peruvian-Japanese) and Chifa (Peruvian-Chinese) cuisines, discerning diners can expect classics like ceviche.

Watermelon Tiradito

Of course, being the creative destination that it is, the mixed ceviche – comprising calamari, prawns, octopus, rocoto leche de tigre, corn and coriander – is served in a contemporary-looking bowl with a smoky presentation. Speaking of which, the serving vessels at AYA are one of the many unique, well thought-out aspects of the restaurant, with custom handmade ceramics created to complement the culinary creations.

Other scrumptious highlights include the tuna Nikkei causa, comprising Peruvian mashed potato with tuna tartare, wakame, tobiko, avocado and wasabi mayo; the Novoandino fish of the day, served with quinotto, locro pure, grilled asparagus and red paprika chimichurri and more. The menu also sees fresh additions every few months. However, if you find it difficult to decide, opt for the chef’s recommendation set menu instead and just enjoy!

Now, if you’ve ever been to AYA, you’d know it’s not the kind of place where you just come in to eat and leave. With interiors designed by Helen Milne, AYA embodies the spirit of ultra hip and edgy street culture – evident from the curated collection of street artworks on the premises. If you’re an art enthusiast, see if you can spot works by famed London artist D*Face, the ever-elusive Banksy, Space Invader, Jan Kaleb and more. Just like the dishes on the menu, the artworks go through a rotation, and the cool part is that you can actually purchase the pieces.

Another cool thing about AYA is the cheeky vibe of the whole scene. Without giving too much away, be sure to check out the mirrored pole area, the Mario Bros-inspired wall and the special messages waiting for you in the toilet. Intrigued? We’ll see you at AYA!